7 Reasons Why The South of France Is A Retirement HotSpot For Americans

Last updated on September 18th, 2024 at 12:32 pm

The South of France and the French Riviera have been the number one tourist spot many times and with good reason. Their appeal lies in their rich history, culture, way of life, food, wine, and fabulous weather.

But why are so many Americans looking to make France their retirement destination, particularly the South of France? What is the allure of the French dream and living “une belle vie” in your golden years?

As an expat on the brink of retirement in France, I’ve compiled seven compelling reasons that might have you swapping cookies for croissants.

Mild Climate

The Mediterranean has lovely year-round weather: hot summers, mild winters, and relatively low rainfall.

The French Riviera, including cities like Nice, Cannes, and Menton, offers some of the best summer weather, with long, dry days and plenty of sunshine. 

Winters in Provence are mild compared to other parts of France. Coastal areas experience mild temperatures that rarely dip below freezing.

April to June and September to mid-October are the best times for those who prefer milder weather and smaller crowds. 

Stunning Scenery

The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is perhaps the most famous part of southern France. It offers dazzling coastal scenery, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and turquoise waters. 

Provence is known for its rolling vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves, especially during the summer when the lavender fields are in full bloom, creating a sea of purple. 

Small, picturesque villages like Gordes and Roussillon are perched on hillsides, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. 

The Languedoc-Roussillon offers a mix of coastal and inland scenery. You’ll find long, sandy beaches and seaside resorts like Montpellier and Sète along the Mediterranean coast. Moving inland, the landscape transitions to vineyards and medieval towns such as Carcassonne, famous for its well-preserved fortress.

The Pyrenees mountain range forms a natural border between France and Spain. This region offers dramatic alpine scenery with snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. 

It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, providing hiking, skiing, and mountaineering opportunities.

Rich Culture and History

If you’re a history lover like me, you’ll be in your element. The city of Nice and the Musée Matisse house a vast collection of works by Henri Matisse, who spent much of his later life there. 

Cannes, famous for its film festival, has historical roots dating back to Roman times, evident in the ancient Suquet district with its narrow, winding streets and medieval castle.​

Arles in the Provence region is renowned for its Roman monuments, including the well-preserved Arles Amphitheatre, which dates back to 90 AD and is still used for events today. The stunning Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) in Avignon served as the seat of the Catholic popes during the 14th century. 

Additionally, the Pont du Gard, a remarkable Roman aqueduct, showcases ancient Rome’s engineering prowess. It was featured in the movie Paris Can Wait.

You can’t talk about history in the South of France without mentioning Carcassonne. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved fortified cities in Europe. Its history dates back to the Gallo-Roman period. 

If you’re a fan of Marc Chagall, the stunning town of Saint-Paul de Vence, with its historic ramparts and breathtaking views, is a must-see.

The Cathar castles, scattered across the region, tell the story of the Cathar heresy and the subsequent Albigensian Crusade. 

The town of Lourdes, one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites, attracts millions of visitors yearly due to its association with the apparitions of the Virgin Mary reported by Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858.

Gastronomy and Wine

The south of France is home to some of the world’s most renowned wine regions. The Rhône Valley, Languedoc-Roussillon, and Provence each produce distinctive wines celebrated globally. 

The Rhône Valley is known for its robust reds like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, while Provence is famous for its refreshing rosés. Languedoc-Roussillon is one of the largest wine-producing regions in the world, offering a diverse range of wines, from full-bodied reds to crisp whites​.

The region’s history and geography deeply influence the culinary traditions in southern France. Provençal cuisine, for instance, uses fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, basil, garlic, and olive oil. 

Dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tapenade are quintessentially Provençal. The coastal areas offer an abundance of fresh seafood, with specialties like oysters from the Étang de Thau and anchovies from Collioure​.

Local markets are a way of life in southern France. They are full of fresh, locally sourced products, from fresh cheeses and charcuterie to seasonal fruits and vegetables. 

World-class Healthcare

The French healthcare system is world-class and renowned for its high standards of medical care and comprehensive coverage. It’s known as “l’Assurance Maladie,” primarily funded through employer and employee contributions to social security. 

This ensures that healthcare is accessible to all residents, including expatriates.

The country has a high number of doctors per capita, state-of-the-art medical facilities, and a strong emphasis on preventative care. Hospitals and clinics are equipped with the latest medical technologies, and healthcare professionals are highly trained.

Healthcare in France is also known for its affordability. While there are costs associated with some services, the majority of medical expenses are reimbursed by the government. Patients typically pay a portion of their medical bills upfront and then receive reimbursement from the national health insurance system. Additional private insurance, known as “mutuelle,” can cover the remaining costs, ensuring that out-of-pocket expenses are minimized.​

THIS ARTICLE HAS A FULL BREAKDOWN OF EXPAT HEALTHCARE IN FRANCE

Affordable Living

France’s overall cost of living is generally lower than in many major U.S. cities. Housing, in particular, is more affordable in French towns and rural areas than in American urban centers. For instance, cities like Lyon, Nice, and Marseille offer lower rent prices than New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles.​

Food costs in France are generally lower, especially if you buy local produce and shop at markets. Fresh bread, cheese, wine, and other staples are more affordable and high-quality. 

Dining out is also relatively inexpensive, with many local restaurants offering set menus at reasonable prices. 

Public transportation in France is efficient and affordable. Cities have extensive metro and bus systems, and the high-speed train network (TGV) makes long-distance travel convenient and cost-effective. 

Expat Community

Expat communities in southern France are known for their strong social networks. Many expats participate in local clubs, associations, and social groups that organize events, meet-ups, and activities. 

These groups offer support and help newcomers integrate into the local culture. Cities like Nice, Aix-en-Provence, and Montpellier have active expat communities with plenty of opportunities to socialize and build connections​.

If you’re worried about speaking French, like I was, don’t be. Most places have many expats who find that a basic knowledge of the language is sufficient, especially in areas with larger expat populations. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to learn and practice your French.

The emphasis on enjoying life, good food, and socializing aligns well with the values of many retirees. The region’s festivals, markets, and cultural events provide ample opportunities to immerse oneself in French culture and traditions, helping you feel at home.

READ My Complete Guide To An Expat Living In France